Loneliness is 'major health issue' associated with poor mental health

Some people seek isolation, but few choose to be lonely, primarily because it isn't good for us.

Loneliness doesn't just make people unhappy, research shows that it has an effect on mortality too.

It is also associated with poor mental health and, more surprisingly, with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and dementia - writes BBC Health reporter Philippa Roxby

10th July 2012